Personal Audio

What falls under personal audio?

Personal audio consists of devices with which you listen to music, conversations, and other audio. Think of headphones, headsets, and earbuds.

These products are suitable for home, work, and on the go. You use them for music, movies, games, and online calls. Good audio also comes in handy during studies or training.

Portable speakers also belong to this category. With these, you can listen to music without wearing headphones or earbuds.

What is the difference between a headset and headphones?

Headphones are primarily intended to play sound. You use them for music, movies, or games.

A headset also has a microphone. This allows you to make calls and participate in online conversations. This makes a headset useful for working from home, customer service, and gaming.

Some headphones have a built-in microphone. This allows them to be used as a headset as well. The microphone is often located in an earcup. With other headsets, the microphone is attached to an adjustable arm.

Do you often have conversations? Then pay close attention to the placement and quality of the microphone. A microphone close to your mouth can often pick up your voice more clearly.

Headphones or wireless earbuds

Headphones sit over or on your ears. This often ensures a secure fit. Headphones can also be comfortable for prolonged use.

Wireless earbuds are smaller and lighter. They fit in your ears and are easy to take with you. Many models come with a charging case. The case protects the earbuds and charges them.

Which choice is best depends on your usage. For a fixed workspace, a headset can be nice. When traveling or exercising, wireless earbuds are often more convenient.

Wearing comfort is personal. Therefore, pay attention to the shape and fit. For earbuds, different sizes of eartips can help find a better fit.

What does TWS mean?

TWS stands for True Wireless Stereo. With TWS earbuds, there is no cable between the left and right earbuds. Both earbuds connect wirelessly.

TWS earbuds offer great freedom of movement. You can use them while traveling, walking, or working. After use, place them in the charging case.

Consider the battery life when making your choice. Check both the playtime of the earbuds and the extra time via the case. The actual battery life depends on the volume and the selected features.

What is ANC?

ANC stands for Active Noise Cancelling. This feature reduces ambient noise. Small microphones pick up the ambient sound. The earbuds then produce a counter-sound.

ANC works particularly well with steady, low sounds. Think of the sound of a train, airplane, or fan. Voices and sudden noises may still be audible.

Do you want more peace and quiet while working or traveling? Then ANC could be a good choice. Keep in mind that this feature uses extra power. As a result, the battery may drain faster.

ANC does not completely isolate you from your surroundings. Therefore, remain alert in traffic and other busy places.

Wired or wireless listening

A wired headphone or headset connects via a cable. Many models use a 3.5mm audio jack or USB connection.

A wired connection is simple. You usually don't need to charge a battery. You also experience little lag or a dropped wireless connection.

Bluetooth offers more freedom of movement. There is no cable between the device and the headset. This is convenient with a laptop, smartphone, or tablet.

Before purchasing, check which connection your device has. Not every laptop or phone still has a 3.5mm jack. For a USB headset, the type of USB plug must also fit.

Audio for the home office

A good headset can make a big difference during a workday. You hear conversations better and have your hands free. You can also partially block out noise at home or in the office.

For calls, choose a model with a microphone. Also pay attention to the weight and fit. A lightweight headset can be more comfortable if you wear it for hours at a time.

A volume control on the cable or earcup is handy. This allows you to adjust the sound without constantly going to your computer. A button to mute the microphone can also be useful.

Do you work in a busy environment? Then closed headphones or an ANC model can help. These reduce distractions, allowing you to focus better on your work.

Portable Bluetooth speakers

With a Bluetooth speaker, you play music wirelessly. You pair the speaker with a phone, tablet, or laptop.

A small speaker is easy to move around. You can use it at home, at the office, or during a day out. Some models have extra features. Think of lighting, an FM radio, or controls on the speaker.

Pay attention to the size, battery life, and desired volume. A compact speaker is convenient to take with you. A larger model can produce more sound, but also takes up more space.

Also check where you want to use the speaker. Not every Bluetooth speaker is resistant to water or dust.

What should you look out for when making your choice?

First, determine what you want to use the product for. A good microphone is important for online calls. For music, pay particular attention to the fit and the desired sound.

Next, choose between wired and wireless. Check if the connection is compatible with your phone, computer, or tablet.

For wireless models, pay attention to battery life and charging method. Also look at features such as ANC, volume control, and a charging case.

Finally, consider comfort. Headphones or a headset must remain comfortable. Earbuds must fit well without causing pain.

Which personal audio suits you?

For online calls and working from home, a headset with a microphone is a logical choice. Do you want a lot of freedom of movement? Then choose a wireless model.

TWS earbuds are small and easy to carry on the go. ANC can provide extra peace and quiet on the train or at the office.

Do you want to share music with others? Then a portable Bluetooth speaker is a better fit. Compare the features and choose the audio product that suits your needs.